Talking Stage
Stable🎒High SchoolDefinition
The early phase of a potential romantic relationship where two people are texting and getting to know each other but haven't committed to dating yet. It's pre-relationship limbo.
Translation for Parents
It's the period before officially dating where they text constantly and overthink every message. Back in your day this was called 'getting to know someone.' Now it has a name, a timeline, and enough anxiety to fuel a Netflix series.
Examples
“We've been in the talking stage for two months and I'm losing it”
“We've been in this undefined pre-dating phase for two months and I need clarity”
“The talking stage is worse than the actual relationship”
“The uncertainty of the pre-dating phase is more stressful than an actual relationship”
Cringe Score
Mildly embarrassing
This is actually a useful phrase that fills a gap in the English language. You can reference 'the talking stage' at dinner and your kids will actually respect your vocabulary for once.
Category
relationship
Peak
2023-01
Last Verified
2026-02-25
Sources
tiktok, reddit